Strawberry Clover

trifolium fragiferum

Also known as: ["Strawberry Clover","Fragrant Clover"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Trifolium Category: Flowers

Overview

A perennial clover species with distinctive strawberry-like flowers and trifoliate leaves, native to Europe and Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Trifolium
Botanical Name: Trifolium fragiferum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area with good air circulation
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Avoid compacted soil; ensure proper drainage; enrich with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize sparingly to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess nutrients; apply after watering to prevent root burn.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may be slower to establish.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim leggy stems; remove spent flowers.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape the plant; remove spent blooms.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for growth and soil health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water precisely to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or organic matter for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged freezing conditions.

Solution: Provide frost protection; move containers indoors; use mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Trifolium fragiferum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Trifolium fragiferum can be caused by water stress, root damage, or disease, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Trifolium fragiferum may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf loss.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can affect Trifolium fragiferum due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Trifolium fragiferum is not toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are known to be harmful to felines when ingested.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal issues. Keep an eye on your cat if they consume parts of the plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Trifolium fragiferum is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic substances that would pose a health risk to canines upon ingestion.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Although non-toxic, ingestion of large quantities may lead to mild digestive upset. Monitor your pet if they consume the plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Trifolium fragiferum, commonly known as strawberry clover, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is not known to produce any significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse health effects upon ingestion.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort. It is advisable to consume in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Strawberry Clover toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does Strawberry Clover attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Q: How easy is it to care for Strawberry Clover?

A: It is very easy to care for, requiring minimal maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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